Immigration crackdowns have led to significant declines in enrollment at a Philadelphia childcare center, impacting both the community and the families it serves.
In the wake of the Trump administration’s aggressive immigration policies, many immigrant families in Philadelphia have retreated into the shadows, leaving local childcare providers grappling with the consequences. Damaris Alvarado-Rodriguez, owner of the Children’s Playhouse Early Learning Center, has witnessed a dramatic decline in enrollment, forcing her to close one classroom and lay off five teachers, all of whom are U.S. citizens.
Located in a low-income, predominantly immigrant neighborhood in south Philadelphia, the Children’s Playhouse serves as a vital resource for the community. In addition to childcare, the center offers job tips, educational sessions, and donations of food, clothing, and other essentials. Before the crackdown, the center was at full capacity, enrolling 158 children. Today, that number has plummeted to just 97.
“Even parents who still have valid immigration status went into hiding,” Damaris explained. “There were so many policies at once that they didn’t know how they would be affected. They were afraid of dropping their children off at school and having ICE waiting for them.”
The fear among families has not only affected enrollment but has also raised concerns about the future of the center. Damaris fears that if the situation does not improve, she may have to shut down the location entirely, resulting in the loss of jobs for 23 more teachers. “We haven’t been able to fill our classrooms—people are afraid,” she said. “Now I’m really second-guessing running the childcare center. If we can’t enroll, we can’t continue in business.”
Beyond the operational challenges, Damaris is deeply concerned about the well-being of the families she no longer sees. The streets that once bustled with children and families are now eerily quiet. “I don’t see children out and about, or families at events,” she noted. “The adults don’t seem to be going to work; vans that used to bring residents to factory and construction jobs are nowhere to be seen.” Some families have even self-deported, choosing to leave rather than live in constant fear. “Nobody wants to live in fear,” she said.
<p“All of this dismantles so much of the work that we’ve put into building up our community,” Damaris added. “These are hardworking people. They contribute to society. We [the daycare centers] help build that economic growth.”
As for the children who are no longer attending her preschool, Damaris is left with unanswered questions. “Where are they? I don’t know,” she said. “I would love to know. I hope they’re OK.”
The Children’s Playhouse provides more than just early education; it is a lifeline for many families. Damaris actively raises funds to supply meals, diapers, infant formula, and clothing to those in need. “We like to fill in those gaps,” she explained.
“We know that most of the children are food-deprived,” Damaris said, her voice tinged with concern. “I pray that they’re OK, that they’re good and safe.”
The impact of immigration crackdowns extends far beyond statistics and policies; it touches the lives of families and communities, leaving a lasting mark on those who strive to build a better future.
According to American Immigration Council, the consequences of these policies are felt deeply in neighborhoods like Damaris’s, where the fear of deportation has disrupted the lives of many.